New Zealand · WHALE WATCHING IN KAIKOURA
Good whale watching in Kaikoura fill up weeks ahead and the great ones go first. Below: the 6 to book early, what each includes and how they differ.
Set out from Whale Watch Kaikōura for just over two hours at sea, searching for giant sperm whales with an English-speaking crew. You may also see dusky dolphins, fur seals, albatross, orcas, and other marine life. The catamaran has outdoor viewing decks, air-conditioned seating, wildlife animations, and space for wheelchair users.
“Incredible. We saw 2 different whales and we saw one of them twice as well as a great dolphin show!”
Cruise from Kaikoura into whale-rich offshore waters aboard a purpose-built catamaran. Your crew, including captains such as Malena or Fred and an onboard marine biologist, tracks sperm whales and other wildlife while explaining the area’s unusual ocean currents. Allow 3.5 hours, prepare for rough seas, and bring motion sickness medicine.
“We opted for the 07:30 departure which was not too busy so there was plenty of space for everyone to get a good view of everything. We were also lucky with the weather as early mist cleared as we left the marina. About 20 minutes out we came across a pod of pilot whales around 50 metres off and stayed with them for a while. Shortly afterwards we saw a sperm whale spouting and the captain moved us fairly close to the magnificent creature who was kind enough to show a beautiful tail flick as he dived once more. Within half an hour we had a second encounter which was…”
Fly above Kaikoura with Air Kaikoura for a 30-minute whale search, live English commentary, and a guaranteed window seat. Pilots such as Ben, Alex, Tom, and Dan have helped passengers spot sperm whales, orcas, dolphins, and humpbacks. The flight also gives you broad views of the coast, reefs, and snow-covered mountains.
“The staff were welcoming, friendly and professional. They made the journey interesting with their commentary and, even though we weren’t lucky enough to spot sperm whales, we saw hump backs and dusty dolphins. The overhead views of the Kaikoura Ranges and the coastal regions were awe-inspiring and made the trip more than worthwhile. Plus, the take off and landing were superb. Thank you for a good trip.”
Fly from Kaikōura Airport over the Hikurangi Marine Reserve, watching for sperm, humpback, blue, and other whales, plus dolphins and orcas. Every passenger gets a window seat, and pilots such as Ben and Alex use radio updates and whale movements to shape the flight. Expect mountain views, a small group of no more than seven, and wildlife that can never be guaranteed.
“All of the staff we interacted with were so kind and friendly. You could tell they genuinely wanted us to have a good experience and see a whale. They had us wait for a bit before going on our flight based on the whales diving patterns to give us the best chance at seeing one and the wait was worth it!”
Fly from Kaikōura Airport with a pilot such as Sam, Jo, Alexis, or Joanne, listening to live commentary as you search for sperm whales, dolphins, and seasonal species. Every passenger gets a window seat. The 30-minute flight also gives you sweeping views of the peninsula, Pacific coast, and snow-covered mountains.
“Absolutely amazing! Transfer and storing my bags at their office in Kaikoura was no problem. The pilot put a lot of effort in the flight so that we can actually see whales. They are in contact with all the other pilots and boats to check where the whales are. We saw 3 sperm whales and a bunch of dusky dolphins”
Travel from Christchurch to Kaikoura by air-conditioned coach, cruise offshore for sperm whales, and watch for dolphins, albatross, and migrating whales. Your guide, often someone such as Jude, Andrew, Carmen, Pete, or Stephanie, shares local stories along the way. The day also includes a fur seal stop and a possible vineyard visit if time allows.
“Jude the person who picked up gave us was really very very good punctual ,informative friendly and very considerate,we like to give her 10/10 thanks very much”
Pick a coast, a summit or a cellar door.
